Teens—both guys and girls—say that parents most influence their desisions about dating and relationships. There is, however, a gender divide ont the topic of parental influence: teen girls (40%) are much more likely than teen guys (30%) to say that parents most influence their dating relationships.
Our survey of teens indicates that friends are the second biggest influence in terms of dating and relationships. In focus groups, teens said they often look to their peers when they feel uncomfortable talking to adults or if they do not have close adult figures in their lives.
"Some teens don't trust adults, but they do trust other teens."
- Male San Antonio Focus Group
Who influences you most when it comes to your dating relationships?
Parents = 35%
Friends = 28%
The media = 4%
Religious leader/Faith community = 3%
Boyfriend or girlfriend = 2%
Other family member = 2%
